I am waiting for our closest Target to open soon over at Metrotown at Metropolis. I can’t wait to see what they have for THIS Canadian shopper who is too lazy to cross the border. This promotion caught my eye not because I am in Ontario or are sending my kids to camp, but because of the subject matter: Allergies and knowing how to use an Epi Pen.
My kids don’t have life threatening allergies, but I seem to have a mystery one that has had me carry an Epi Pen with me always. They are pretty straight forward to use, but having an ‘expert’ show me and help me teach my family members about it is a good thing.
Along with expert advice on allergy management, available at Target Pharmacy is an EpiPen Training Device, Target apparently offers this to people who are going to work with people like camp counsellors at sleep away or day camps to help guests ensure they know how to use an EpiPen and are comfortable with its look and feel. Here’s how it works:
- The EpiPen Training Device is easily distinguishable from the real Auto-Injector—the label clearly states “Training Device” and is pale blue in colour.
- The EpiPenTraining Device works in the same way as the real EpiPen, but does not contain a needle or epinephrine.
- To use the EpiPen Training Device simply pull off the blue safety release, swing and push the orange tip firmly into the mid-outer thigh until it “clicks”, AND HOLD on the thigh for several seconds.
- To practice again, the EpiPen Training Device must be reset. To do this, replace the blue safety release, place the tip on a hard surface, squeeze the sides of the tip and push down.
Source: www.epipen.ca
Target Pharmacists can also show guests a demonstration using the EpiPen Starter Kit, which contains the EpiPen Training Device along with educational and instructional videos. Guests can view and try these resources at Target, and also order their own EpiPen Training Device or EpiPen Starter Kit at www.epipen.ca, to help prepare for a safe and enjoyable camp experience. If I had children who needed an Epi Pen, this would be a fantastic service.
Starting in July, 48 Target stores across Canada will carry Beware Bandits – an easy to use medical awareness wristband for children with allergies and health concerns. The bands are made with a Latex-free band and Nickel-free snaps and can easily be washed and disinfected. The bright and colourful bracelets come in 12 different bands from food allergy bands such as peanut and fish to diabetes and insect stings, and are a great reminder for your friends, family, teachers and camp counselors to keep a watchful eye out for potentially harmful allergic reactions and health issues.
Parents can also visit their local Target Pharmacy for expert advice along with tip sheets and takeaways on allergy management at camp. Target stores are open in 48 locations across Canada including British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario. To find your nearest Target, please visit Target.ca/locations.
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